Definition

A type of jump in ballet where the dancer crosses their legs in the air several times, moving them back and forth.

Example

The dancer performed a beautiful entrechat during the performance, impressing the audience with her skill.

Conversation

Did you see that dancer's entrechat in the performance last night?

Yes, it was amazing how high she jumped!

I know, I could never master an entrechat like that.

It's definitely a challenging move, but so impressive when done right.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

**Entrechat** → The word comes from the French *entrechat*, which is derived from the combination of "entre" (meaning between) and "chats" (meaning cats, from the verb *chatter*, to jump). In ballet, it refers to a jump where the dancer crosses their legs in the air, resembling the movement of a cat. Thus, it describes a dance move that involves jumping between positions.

Memory Tip

Imagine a dancer jumping 'between' ('entre') positions like a cat ('chats') — this helps you remember that 'entrechat' is a ballet jump that resembles a cat's agile movements.

Visually Confused Words